DYNAMIC fullback Will Clark and skilful playmaker Tash Harris are Nelson Bay Rugby Club’s most outstanding players for 2025.
The talented duo were officially recognised as the Gropers’ respective Players of the Year in the Hunter Suburban Men’s and Women’s ranks at the club’s presentation night last Friday.
Clark was a stand out for Nelson Bay during the men’s Grand Final charge, spearheading the Gropers to the finals with dashing performances in the number 15 jumper.
Quicksilver Harris turned in classy performances at fly half in the women’s competition, with her vision, organisational skills and turn of speed a feature throughout the season.
Fresh from her Player of the Match performance as half back and captain of the Nelson Bay Bandits rugby league team, which won an historic Newcastle-Maitland Women’s Community Plate premiership title with a 16-4 Grand Final victory over the Mallabula Pantherettes, trump card Tash also received the Gropers’ Best Back award.
The women’s squad were ravaged by injuries and the unavailability of key players for crucial fixtures with the mercurial Harris proving a consistent force in the pressure moments.
Hard working volunteer Amber Barber was a deserved recipient of the Gropers’ Clubman of the Year Award for her sterling service behind the scenes.
Evergreen stalwart and inspirational number eight Adam Edwards took out the Men’s “Player Award” while sharp utility back Brayden McMasters was named Rookie of the Year.
Talented number ten Khace Petera was rewarded for his skilful performances at fly half by receiving the Best Back trophy while Gropers’ workhorse and fearless flanker Lewis Affleck earned the Best Forward Award.
Other men’ s perpetual trophy winners included Kade Redmond (President’s Award); Ryan Marshall (Dean Como Award); Jesse Hubbard (Respect Award) and Leigh Byfield (Infamous Deed of the Year Award).
Nelson Bay’s powerhouse forward Jessica Beam was named the women’s players “Player” after her courageous displays in the engine room, while tireless flanker Holly Uney took out the Coaches Award.
Rookie of the Year AnaRosa Setefano made an impact as a power running and tough tackling prop forward in her debut season, while the talented Nowlan sisters Leah and Sierra were recognised for their superb efforts.
Smart half back and inspirational skipper Leah received the Marilyn Buchanan Award for “going over and above” with her duties on and off the field, while industrious flanker Sierra claimed the Best Forward trophy.
By Chris KARAS
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